Rabbi Reflects on Protests and Community Support

A rabbi, who is a Holocaust survivor and leads a historic Manhattan synagogue, expressed deep concern regarding recent anti-Israel protests near his place of worship. He wonders what might have unfolded if law enforcement hadn’t been present.

“I’m a Holocaust survivor. I witnessed my synagogue burn during Kristallnacht, with police standing idle,” Rabbi Arthur Schneier of Park East Synagogue recounted. This event was part of a grim history where, in 1938, the Nazis destroyed over 1,000 synagogues and businesses amid rampant anti-Semitic riots.

He expressed gratitude for the protection provided by police in America. “Thank God for America; they shield us from those who promote hate,” he stated.

Schneier voiced his disapproval of the demonstrations that took place, where around 200 people shouted inflammatory chants like “Globalize the Intifada!” and “Death to the IDF!” This gathering was organized by a group advocating for Jewish immigration to Israel.

In response to the tension, authorities set up barricades to separate opposing sides of the protests.

Schneier believes that the violent scenes serve as a crucial reminder. “We shouldn’t stay silent in the face of this,” he emphasized.

No place of worship should endure such demonstrations, he argued. The protests were led by the group Pal Awda New York/New Jersey, which stated their aim was to highlight issues surrounding “American settlers occupying Palestinian land.”

Nefesh Bunefesh, the Jewish organization hosting the event at the synagogue, encourages immigration to Israel from North America but has no formal connections to West Bank activities.

Local lawmakers, including Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, denounced the protests. “I condemn the hateful anti-Semitic slogans from last night’s protest at Park East Synagogue,” he stated. “We need to confront such acts whenever they arise. Intimidation like this outside places of worship is unacceptable in America.”

Feeling moved by the community’s response, Schneier noted the support from figures such as Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City’s Police Commissioner. “I’m touched by the solidarity from people outraged by these events. I’ve even received calls from clergy of various faiths,” he remarked.

He further stated that attacking a house of worship disrupts an entire faith community’s heart. The synagogue has been a cornerstone for New York’s Jewish population since 1890.